Child Behavior Checklist

Types of Checklists

A child behavior checklist is a tool for parents, educators, researchers, and doctors to use to help evaluate, monitor, and control children’s conduct. With such a variety of potential applications and requirements, there are an equal number of types of checklists.

Generally speaking, there are two main categories of child behavior checklists: charts and checklists. The following are examples and samples of the different types of each.

Charts

A behavior chart is a motivating tool that keeps track of children’s behavior. This recordkeeping allows caregivers to reward and punish depending on the conduct exhibited. A goal-oriented process, a chart is a great behavior management tool. Ideally, once a family has identified a problem or objective for a child, an appropriate chart can be made or bought. The most important job of a child behavior chart is to set clear expectations and consequences.

Some examples of child behavior charts include:

• Potty Training Charts
• Homework Charts
• Chore Charts
• Behavior Modification Charts

Checklists

Most child behavior checklists either identify potential problems or evaluate a child’s progress. Many schools, pediatricians, child psychologists, and child development books provide these types of tools. They help parents and caregivers determine if their children’s behavior is at appropriate levels for their age and development. They address a variety of concerns, including:

• Emotional Issues – anxiety, depression and ADHD.
• Developmental Issues – communication skills, maturity level, and social and physical development.
• Aggression Issues – anger management, bullying, biting, and hitting.
• School Issues – grade level determination, kindergarten readiness.

These types of checklists are great guidelines for parents, but should always be discussed with a professional. A child behavior checklist is a good first step before deciding to seek help for a struggling child.

The Child Behavior Checklist

An extremely popular child behavior checklist, known as CBCL, was created by the Achenbach System of Empirically Based Assessment – ASEBA. With two different versions, one for ages 18 months to 5 years and the other for ages 6 to 18, it is a complete summary incorporating years of multiple studies and research regarding child development. The 15-minute checklist evaluates behavior and social competency of children. The ASEBA is an organization lead by Thomas M. Achenbach, PHD, a professor of psychiatry and psychology at the University of Vermont. The checklist is administered by trained professionals and given to parents or other close caregivers of the child. It is most often used during treatment and in scientific research.

Implementing

Whether you are choosing a chart, checklist, or both to evaluate and improve your child’s conduct, there are some ideal standards to follow. The first is to find the best type for your needs. There are many local opportunities where you can find great resources including:

• Your library or bookstore
• Local Child & Family Services Division
• School counselors and teachers
• Doctors and health centers
• The Internet

When completing a checklist, be honest in your evaluation and mention all concerns to the professional in charge. A child behavior checklist is only as effective as the information provided. Remember, what seems like a minor detail could actually be a key point for the child development professional to know.

Lastly, a checklist is a tool for determining possible concerns in children’s behavior. It is not intended to diagnose or label children. Each family and child is unique and checklists operate with generalizations. Let them guide the choices you make toward behavior management, but don’t use them as a final assessment.

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